“I started working at five years of age when Dad gave me a hoe and told me to weed the corn patch,” Borden said. “I’ve always worked. I get to talk to people, it keeps my thinking processes going and I enjoy it. I made some sacrifices to get my education. Why waste any of that?”

A former FBI special agent, Borden has devoted his life to upholding the law. After earning an associate degree from Weatherford College, he enrolled at the University of Texas law school and graduated in 1936. His first job was as an assistant district attorney. He later was elected to the office of District Attorney, after running unopposed.

When World War II started, Borden wanted to join the army but color blindness prevented his enlistment. He then applied to become a special agent with the FBI and served with distinction for 4 years. He is one of the oldest living former FBI agents.

After leaving the FBI, Borden began his private practice in Weatherford, Texas. Over the past several decades, he partnered with attorneys in several different firms and currently practices law with his nephew, John Westhoff. Among the oldest members of the State Bar of Texas, he works about 40 hours a week, specializing in real estate and probate work.

A Role Model

Borden said his proudest memory is his graduation from law school. He attributes his long life and career to his desire to serve as a role model for younger generations, practicing law in a manner that will encourage them to become lawyers.

In addition to his career, Borden has remained active in his community. He was elected to public office four times, and each time he was unopposed. He served as the Mayor of Weatherford from 1960-1964 and was recognized as the Outstanding Citizen of Weatherford in 2005. He was married to his late wife, Edith, for 66 years.

“Experience Works is proud to recognize Mr. Borden as America’s Outstanding Oldest Worker, and we appreciate his efforts to raise awareness about the contributions older individuals make in today’s workplace and break down barriers often associated with their employment,” said Cynthia Metzler, president and CEO of Experience Works. “He is a wonderful example of how seniors who stay active, both mentally and physically, can continue to make valuable contributions to the workplace and to their communities.”

Now in its 11th year, the search for America’s Outstanding Oldest Worker is sponsored by Experience Works, a nonprofit organization that helps mature workers enter the work force, secure more challenging positions, move into new careers or supplement their incomes. Previous winners include a 100-year-old journalist, a 101-year-old engineer, a 100-year-old business owner, a 103-year-old real estate developer, a 102-year-old professor, a 100-year old architect and a 104-year-old entrepreneur.